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Crispy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 86 reviews

Crispy, golden mozzarella sticks coated in a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack. These mozzarella sticks are double-coated for extra crunch, then deep-fried until the cheese inside melts to gooey perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

  • 12 sticks of low moisture mozzarella cheese, about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick

Flour Paste

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup water

Breadcrumb Coating

  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Frying

  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, enough for deep frying (about 4 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cheese Sticks: Cut the low moisture mozzarella into sticks, roughly 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
  2. Make Flour Paste: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and water to form a smooth, slightly thick batter. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks.
  3. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), and black pepper until evenly combined.
  4. First Coating: Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour paste, ensuring full coverage, then roll it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
  5. Second Coating: For extra crunch, dip the coated sticks back into the flour paste and again roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, double coating each stick thoroughly.
  6. Freeze: Place the double-coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 1 hour to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  7. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the sticks.
  8. Deep Fry: Fry mozzarella sticks in small batches for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
  9. Drain & Serve: Remove fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce while hot and melty inside.

Notes

  • Freezing the mozzarella sticks before frying is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
  • Use low moisture mozzarella for best texture and less watery results.
  • Adjust seasoning in breadcrumb mix to your taste; chili flakes add a bit of heat but can be omitted.
  • Monitor oil temperature carefully; frying too hot or cold can affect crispiness and melting.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, snack, crispy cheese

Find it online: https://stirringwithstella.com/crispy-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/